Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are the most recently identified cell types to be added to the complex cellular map of the immune system.

-Their role in the skin is incompletely understood but in the mucous surface of lung and intestines, they regulate barrier function. Because of their location as the first to be put in contact with the exterior environment they likely play a role in mounting the inflammatory response in addition to tissue development, integrity and homeostasis.

In this Swiss and Austrian study, the authors sought to explore the presence of this immune cell in the skin and imply its potential role. They compares the presence of these cell types in inflamed vs normal skin.-Atopic Dermatitis and Psoriasis are the most commonly encountered inflammatory skin diseasesinfiltrate ILC innate lymphoid cells. 13 biopsies were taken in lesional skin in AD and P and matched with healthy controls

ILCs were found to be located high up in the epidermis in close proximity to T lymphocytes

ILCs: "to gauge the environment"-ILCs contain nuclear receptors including Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR). It is therefore possible that ILCs sense environmental agents such as pollutants. (ILC3). -The diagram below shows the type of pathways ILC3 uses to respond to stimuli including through AhR receptor, it then mounts inflammatory responses through activation of several pathways.

Potential Roles of ILCs:-ILCs promote protective immunity to pathogens-ILCs in allergy and autoimmunity-Organogenesis and maintenance of tissue integrity-ILCs and cancer-ILCs and metabolic homeostasis

Why pay attention to ILCs ? -The identification of various ILC subsets and further insight into their tissue distribution have highlighted important functions for ILCs in triggering immunity, inflammation and tissue repair. -ILC1s, ILC2s and ILC3s have multiple interactions with the microbiota, nutrients, metabolites, neurons and parenchymal cells. -The molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions and their consequences for tissue homeostasis remain poorly defined.